Take 2 an instant success

If the response to the opening of the Far North Hospice shop, Take 2, in Kaitaias main street on Friday was anything to go by it will do a great job of raising funds for the organisation.

Mayor John Carter had barely cut the ribbon before goods began flying off the shelves.

Bargain hunters joined community representatives and volunteers to see Mr Carter cut the ribbon and officially declare the new store open for business. The current plan was to open from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Thursday, manager Lynn Malone said, but she wasnt expecting those hours to last long.

By the look of today and how busy weve been, I think well be extending those hours pretty soon, she said.

Far North Hospice operations manager Davina Reed welcomed all those gathered, and thanked everyone who had been involved in getting the shop ready for opening.

Today we celebrate the official opening of this shop, once a dream, now a reality, to be shared by the whole community, she said.

I am humbled by everyone who has contributed to this new and exciting venture, which is a milestone for our hospice. I am proud to be part of it.

Trust chairman Eric Shackleton agreed that the shop was a major step for the organisation.

This is a wondrous occasion. We now have a large sign that everyones going to see, which in turn will help raise awareness of this great organisation. And it gives all in the community a chance to support Hospice, he said.

Mayor John Carter described the occasion as expressing what can do when they have a will to do so.

This is an example of what can be done when we come together. Its why we are the community we are, because of people like you. Congratulations, he said.